Systems Change
The goal of all of ODEP's demonstration programs is to effect a change in a variety of elements within the workforce development system so that adults and youths with disabilities and employers will be better served. The ODEP demonstration programs are expected to make an impact on systems change in the following ways:
- Capacity-Building - The capacity to achieve positive workforce outcomes includes changing perceptions, attitudes, and understanding of the issues related to disability, as well as improving the access and availability of people with disabilities to several different types of resources (e.g., funds, staff, time, resources, policies, procedures) and services.
- Coordination - The programs will develop and improve systems, processes, and services within the workforce development system to break down the barriers and the separate "silos" that restrict the workforce development system from better serving people with disabilities and employers.
- Customization - The programs will develop and improve the workforce development system's ability to achieve individualized person-centered planning. Employers are also supported in meeting their employment needs through appropriate supports and accommodations (e.g., workplace accommodations, job restructuring) for people with disabilities.
- Development and Adaptation of New Practices - The foundation of the ODEP Demonstration Program is the identification of practices that are effective and adaptable to a wide variety of circumstances. Demonstration projects are expected to test evidence-based best practices (e.g., Customized Employment strategies, Guideposts for Success: Quality Youth Transition Services in their own environment so these practices may be disseminated and used throughout the workforce development system.
- Dissemination of Effective Practices - The results obtained by the new programs, practices, and processes will be disseminated throughout the workforce development system.
- Sustainability - The projects work with partners and other organizations to ensure that systems are put in place so that improved capacity, coordination, and adaptation of effective practices can be maintained after their ODEP funding ceases.
